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Starting today, Xbox Insiders who have an Xbox Game Pass Core or Standard subscription will get access to cloud gaming in a new beta test. Before this, the ability to stream games was exclusive to the more expensive Game Pass Ultimate tier.
Cloud gaming allows you to stream games from Xbox’s catalog, or stream cloud-playable games you already own, on any supported device. You can do all of this right from the home screen of Xbox Cloud Gaming or the Xbox app on your supported TV.
Along with this huge news, Microsoft is also expanding the ways players can get into PC gaming through Xbox Game Pass. For the first time, Xbox Insiders with a Game Pass Core or Standard membership will be able to get their hands on PC versions of certain titles. To find these games, you just have to open the Xbox PC app, sign in, and go to the Game Pass tab.
I use the Ultimate tier just for Cloud gaming, so I will likely be downgrading once this is released to the public. While it may seem strange that Xbox is adding such a big feature to lower tiers, it could be a way to get more subscribers at the lower level or attract subscribers to the Insiders program. $19.99 a month is more than many TV subscriptions, so it’s a big ask for players who may only want to play free games like Call of Duty Warzone or Fortnite, or games that they’ve already paid for in the past.
Xbox Game Pass Core
Unlock online multiplayer gaming, a curated selection of free games, and other awesome perks with an Xbox Game Pass Core subscription.
The company also isn’t going to be hurting for money since ads are coming to Xbox regardless of your subscription tier. If anything, this is a way for the company to provide more for the lower tiers, and that’s a win for the players.
Also, keep in mind that Game Pass Ultimate tier is still the top-tier option. It gives you access to hundreds of games on console, PC, and cloud, day one releases, online console multiplayer, and other cool benefits like an EA Play membership at no extra cost. You also get in-game benefits for Riot titles, Quests, and discounts on games in the library. While the new changes are a big win for Core and Standard members, Ultimate is still the way to go if you want everything.
If you’re not an Xbox Insider yet but want to get in on the action and help shape the future of Xbox, you can join the program by downloading the Xbox Insider Hub on your Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, or Windows PC. Becoming an Insider lets you get early access to new features, games, and apps. You also get to earn XP by completing quests, surveys, and giving feedback directly to the engineering teams. The whole process is designed to be easy and quick.
Source: Microsoft
